Parasites in Dog’s Stool: Signs and Treatments

Spotting parasites in a dog’s stool can be alarming. While it’s not uncommon, it often signals an issue that needs prompt veterinary attention. Parasites may affect your dog’s digestive system, overall comfort, and long-term health if left untreated. Whether you’re a new pet owner or you’ve cared for dogs for years, understanding what parasites in dog’s stool might look like and what to do next can make a significant difference. At Companion Animal Hospital of Wakefield in Raleigh, we help pet parents navigate these situations with confidence and care. If you’re concerned about your dog’s health, call us at (919) 488-5300. 

Common Signs of Parasites in Dog’s Stool

Dogs infected with intestinal parasites often show visible signs, but some symptoms are easy to overlook. Paying attention to subtle changes can help you spot issues early. When parasites are present in your dog’s stool, you may notice a range of symptoms that suggest an internal problem.

Visible Worms or Eggs in Stool

One of the most obvious signs of parasites in dog’s stool is the presence of worms. These may appear as white, string-like organisms or small rice-sized segments. Tapeworm segments, for example, often resemble grains of rice and may be seen in or around your dog’s feces. Roundworms tend to be longer and resemble spaghetti. If you notice any of these in your pet’s stool, call Companion Animal Hospital of Wakefield at (919) 488-5300 to schedule an appointment.

Changes in Bowel Movements

Loose stool or diarrhea is a common symptom of parasitic infection. In some cases, you might also see mucus or blood. These symptoms often result from irritation or inflammation caused by parasites. You may also notice increased frequency or urgency in bowel movements.

Weight Loss or Poor Coat Condition

If parasites in a dog’s stool go undetected, they may impact your pet’s ability to absorb nutrients. As a result, you might see weight loss or a dull, dry coat. These issues typically appear gradually, so they can be easy to miss. A healthy dog with parasites may still act normal, which makes regular veterinary checkups even more important.

Scooting or Excessive Licking

Dogs with intestinal parasites often scoot their hind end across the floor or excessively lick their anal area. This behavior could indicate discomfort or itching caused by parasites like tapeworms. Though scooting can have other causes, it’s worth having your veterinarian check for intestinal parasites.

How Dogs Get Parasites in Their Stool

Understanding how dogs become infected can help you protect your pet. Parasites are common in outdoor environments, dog parks, and even during everyday walks. Once ingested or absorbed, these parasites settle in the intestines and reproduce, eventually appearing in the stool.

• Contaminated Soil, Water, or Feces: Dogs often explore the world with their mouths. They can easily ingest parasite eggs or larvae by sniffing or licking contaminated soil, drinking from puddles, or coming into contact with infected feces. Even well-maintained yards or public parks can harbor parasites.
• Fleas and Intermediate Hosts: Some parasites, such as tapeworms, are transmitted through flea ingestion. If your dog swallows an infected flea while grooming, they may develop a tapeworm infestation. Keeping up with flea prevention can significantly reduce this risk.
• Transmission from Mother to Puppy: Puppies are especially vulnerable to parasites in dog’s stool. Many are born with parasites or acquire them through nursing. Routine deworming during puppy visits helps manage this risk early on.

Types of Parasites Found in Dog’s Stool

Several different parasites can be found in a dog’s stool. Each type may cause different symptoms and may require specific testing for diagnosis. A veterinary visit helps determine which parasite is present and what treatment will be most effective.

Roundworms

Roundworms can grow several inches long and are often visible in a dog’s stool or vomit. Infected dogs may show signs like bloating, poor growth in puppies, or a potbellied appearance.

Tapeworms

Tapeworms are flat, segmented worms. You might notice dried segments around your dog’s anus or in their stool. Though often less symptomatic than other parasites, they can still affect your pet’s health and comfort.

Hookworms

Hookworms feed on blood in the intestinal lining and may cause anemia, particularly in puppies or small breeds. Symptoms may include dark, tarry stools or visible blood, weakness, and pale gums.

Whipworms

Whipworms are thin, thread-like parasites that live in the large intestine. They can cause intermittent diarrhea, weight loss, and general discomfort. These parasites are harder to detect and may require multiple fecal exams.

Giardia and Coccidia

These are microscopic parasites that often spread through contaminated water. Giardia causes soft, greasy stools with a strong odor, while coccidia typically causes watery diarrhea. Both are common in puppies and dogs exposed to communal spaces.

Diagnosing Parasites in Dog’s Stool

If you suspect parasites, your veterinarian will recommend diagnostic testing to identify the type of parasite and create a treatment plan. Bringing a fresh stool sample to your appointment will help ensure accurate results.

Fecal Floatation and Microscopic Examination

A common diagnostic tool is the fecal flotation test. This process involves mixing a small stool sample with a solution to separate parasite eggs, which are then examined under a microscope. This method helps identify roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and other eggs.

Antigen Testing

In some cases, especially for parasites like Giardia, antigen testing may be used to detect microscopic organisms not visible with traditional fecal testing. These tests look for parasite proteins and can confirm infections even when no visible eggs are found.

Multiple Sample Testing

Parasites don’t always shed eggs consistently. Your veterinarian may recommend multiple samples collected over a few days to ensure accuracy, especially when symptoms persist but no parasites are detected on the first test.

Potential Treatment Options for Parasites in Dog’s Stool

After diagnosis, your veterinarian will prescribe the appropriate treatment based on the type of parasite. Treatment plans vary depending on the severity of the infection and the age and overall health of your dog.

Prescription Dewormers

Most intestinal parasites respond well to prescription dewormers. These medications target specific parasites and may require one or more doses. Some treatments are oral tablets, while others may be administered as liquids or injections.

Follow-Up Care

In many cases, follow-up stool testing is necessary to confirm the treatment’s success. Your veterinarian will guide you on when to retest and whether further treatment is needed. Prompt follow-up care helps prevent reinfection and keeps your dog feeling their best.

Preventive Measures

Routine parasite prevention, including monthly heartworm and intestinal parasite control, can significantly reduce the chances of future infections. Flea control, clean living spaces, and regular veterinary visits all play a role in keeping parasites in dog’s stool at bay.

What You Can Do Next to Help Your Dog

Parasites in dog’s stool should never be ignored. Even if symptoms appear mild, they often signal a deeper issue that requires attention. If you’ve noticed changes in your pet’s bowel movements, visible worms, or signs of discomfort, reach out to Companion Animal Hospital of Wakefield. Our team can help diagnose and treat the problem so your dog can feel better, faster. To schedule an exam, please call (919) 488-5300 or request an appointment online. We’re here to help you understand what’s going on and take the right steps for your pet’s health.